Explore every episode of the podcast This Is Nashville
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latine country musicians navigate the music industry on their own terms | 29 May 2025 | 00:49:33 | |
The Nashville-based country music industry has been slow to truly embrace the impact of the wide array of Latine artists actively making country music both here and around the world. To speed things along, a new generation of locals are working together to form supportive communities and organizations. On today’s episode we hear from musicians and advocates who organize support for one another both publicly and behind the scenes. Plus, we explore how Freddy Fender, an early pioneer of Latine country, influenced the industry and helped build a foundation for the next generation. This episode was produced by Jewly Hight and Mary Mancini. Guests
Further Reading and Listening
| |||
| Who Cares? Family caregivers share stories and struggles in our monthly series NEXT AGE | 28 May 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
Let's talk about the C-word: Caregiving. In this episode, we continue our monthly series, NEXT AGE, with stories of people who are caring for an older adult relative. If you’re thinking "who cares?" — this might make you feel differently: According to a report from the National Alliance for Caregiving, for every five people you know, at least one of them is caring for a family member and even more are caring for more than one relative. They are unpaid — often unseen and sacrificing well-being, finances and identity. Caregiving is now a universal experience impacting every age, gender, socioeconomic and racial or ethnic group. In the words of the late former first lady Rosalyn Carter: “There are only four kinds of people in the world: It can be a rewarding experience; but it can also be a physical, financial and emotional struggle. This episode will share stories of local people caring for an older adult relative. We'll hear from aging advocates about services and support systems for family caregivers, learn about options for longterm care allowing people to age at home, and we'll find out the latest research on strategies for coping and finding well-being. Our show is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner. GUESTS:
| |||
| In My Place, Episode 13: The Waiting Period | 27 May 2025 | 00:49:59 | |
Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. Many people experiencing homelessness have to overcome hurdles to access services and housing. In our last episode, we discussed the time tax of filling out redundant paperwork. Once that paperwork is filled out and submitted, people are still unhoused. Today we talk about what happens during that waiting period. We will discuss with our guests how providers work with people while they are in limbo about whether, when, and where they will be able to access housing, and we’ll hear how people feel about this waiting period. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning about what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. We’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett and Tasha AF Lemley. Further listening:
| |||
| After moratorium, Tennessee executes Oscar Franklin Smith | 22 May 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Tennessee put a hold on executions in 2022 due to concerns about its lethal injection protocol. This morning, the state resumed executions, using lethal injection to put to death Oscar Franklin Smith. He had spent more than three decades incarcerated and went through numerous execution dates. Today on the show, we speak with one of Smith's sons, Casey Smith, about the impact this crime — and its punishment — have had on his life. But first, WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger joins us to report on today's latest developments. Today's episode was produced by Paige Pfleger and Tasha A.F. Lemley. GUESTS
| |||
| All about accents! | 21 May 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
On today’s show, we speak with experts in the fields of dialect coaching and sociolinguistics to learn the cultural and scientific aspects of what we call an “accent.” We'll also hear from people who have moved to America and worked to change the way they sound. And we want to hear from you, too! So call into the show and talk about your own speech patterns. Do you think you have an accent? Have you been judged because of how you sound? Tell us your stories and toss us your questions. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Liv Lombardi. GUESTS:
| |||
| Giancarlo Guerrero, Music Director at the Nashville Symphony | 20 May 2025 | 00:49:56 | |
For sixteen years Giancarlo Guerrero has captivated audiences with his charismatic conducting — all while championing the works of prominent American composers and winning multiple GRAMMY Awards. This weekend, Guerrero’s tenure as Music Director at the Nashville Symphony comes to a close. On today’s episode, he joins us to talk about his life, his work and, of course, the music. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini, Nina Cardona and Char Daston. GUESTS
FURTHER READING
| |||
| Béla Fleck's Banjo legacy | 19 May 2025 | 00:49:31 | |
GRAMMY winner Béla Fleck has taken the art of playing the banjo to stellar heights. He's here to share about his journey playing music professionally for more than 50 years — and about his latest album, BEATrio, which dropped last week. Fleck has amassed a career playing the banjo for audiences all over the world as well as with legendary musicians. Most recently, he's teamed up with musicians Edmar Castañeda and Antonio Sánchez for BEATrio. Today, we're talking about this latest project and ask what he has learned on his journey through life. Join us! This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. GUEST:
| |||
| The Belcourt Theatre celebrates its 100th birthday | 15 May 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
Nashville’s non-profit film center The Belcourt Theatre turns one hundred this month and there's no denying its long and positive impact on this city. Over the course of a century, The Belcourt has been many different things including a stage for the Grand Ole Opry, a silent film house and a community playhouse for children's theatre. Join us today as we explore celebrations planned for this impressive and notable milestone, the highs and lows of its history, how it became the independent film industry powerhouse it is today. This episode was produced by Justin Barney and Mary Mancini. Guests
| |||
| Defending our neighbors: advocates for immigrant rights | 14 May 2025 | 00:50:07 | |
Mister Rogers once told his young viewers to “look for the helpers” in times of crisis. On this episode we talk with advocates who work every day with some of the most vulnerable in this country: immigrants. We hear from lawyers on both the employment side and the humanitarian side of immigration law. Plus, we learn about the impact of being an immigration lawyer in 2025 has on mental health. This episode was produced by Char Daston and Josh Deepan. GUESTS:
| |||
| Ask the Mayor, plus Vivian Wilhoite, Metro Property Assessor | 13 May 2025 | 00:50:08 | |
Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls! This month, the mayor talks ICE raids, transportation, the State of Metro and more. Then, later in the show, we hear from Metro Property Assessor Vivian Wilhoite about the latest property tax assessment and appeals process. Next month, the mayor is scheduled to join us on Thursday, June 18. Mark your calendar and call 615-760-2000 at noon that day with your question or comment. You can also leave us a message at 615-751-2500 and it might end up on the show! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Cynthia Abrams. Guests
| |||
| Bill Birdsong Miller keeps finding joy in music | 12 May 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Bill Birdsong Miller has been playing and creating music for over 50 years. He might be having more fun now than ever before. Nashville-based musician Bill Birdsong Miller is an icon in the Native American music community. He discovered his love for music when he was young, and the deep connection and joy he found when he played has guided him through a career spanning several decades, countless tours and 3 grammy wins. Today he’s here to share wisdom he’s earned from his global career and his own evolution as an artist– and he’ll be performing live in the studio. Join us! This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS FURTHER LISTENING
| |||
| After the Gavel, Part 2: Post-Session Analysis | 08 May 2025 | 00:49:30 | |
Yesterday, reporters assigned to cover the Tennessee State Capitol joined us for a legislative wrap-up. Today, we go a bit deeper with a post-session analysis. How will the bills passed on issues like education, immigration and foster care impact the lives of the people who live and work in Tennessee? Plus, we’re opening up the phone lines because it’s your turn to talk. What questions or comments do you have about the legislation passed this year? Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. This episode was produced and hosted by Mary Mancini. Guests
Further reading and listening
| |||
| After the Gavel, Part 1: Legislative Wrap-Up | 07 May 2025 | 00:50:10 | |
The Tennessee legislature recently wrapped up the first half of the 114th General Assembly, and there is a lot to digest. Today, we bring you the first of a two-part review. Reporters assigned to cover the work of our elected state representatives join us to recap the bills passed, the bills still waiting to be signed by the governor, and the constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot in 2026. Tomorrow, we go a bit deeper into the issues with a post-session analysis — that you can join by calling 615-760-2000 at noon Thursday. Guests
| |||
| Re-Air: Tennessee’s wetlands are at risk | 06 May 2025 | 00:49:56 | |
Tennessee has a precious natural resource: wetlands. We even have wetlands right here in the heart of Nashville. And they are at risk. During the 2025 legislative session, Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill that will cut some of the protections for wetlands across the state. Developers now have the option to build over wetlands without informing the state and will no longer be financially incentivized to develop around them. Today, we hear why wetlands are a valuable part of a healthy ecosystem. We also break down the legislation and check in with local groups working to protect this natural resource. This episode was produced by Caroline Eggers, WPLN’s environmental reporter, and Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS
FURTHER READING & LISTENING | |||
| A conversation with Amy Grant | 05 May 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
For 50 years, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Amy Grant has captivated audiences. And luckily for us, she calls Nashville home. On today’s show, we speak with Amy about not just her career but her experiences raising a family while on the road, her perceptions of Nashville, and what she has in store next. We also speak with her about her approach to writing and composing a song and the importance of collaboration when making music. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. GUESTS:
| |||
| Re-air: Paddle, paddle, paddle! Making a splash in Tennessee's scenic waterways | 01 May 2025 | 00:49:57 | |
Summer is on the way! Today, we're talking how to get out to enjoy local ponds, rivers and lakes to cool down and have some fun! Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, or fishing! There are so many ways to enjoy being on the water. Today we're talking with local water enthusiasts about their favorite ways to jump in — and what you need to know to get out there to join them – and stay safe. Join us! 2025 update: Want to gain skills and confidence on the water? Check out the 2025 National Safe Boating Week and consider signing up for Kayak 101 classes which will be held across several TN state parks on May 17th for $15 (usually $50-100). Today's show was produced by Katherine Ceicys. Today's Guests:
| |||
| End of school year student check in! | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Students here in Middle Tennessee are gearing up for finals, special dances, and for some, graduation. Today we are checking in with local students to hear about their past school years. We’ll find out what they’ve learned in and out of the classroom and how they are navigating friendships, responsibilities and new freedoms. We’ll also hear from some students who were on the show in the fall. Join us! Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS
FURTHER LISTENING
| |||
| In My Place, Episode 12: Paper Cuts | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:49:54 | |
Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our first two episodes of this season, we talked about what the first point of contact is like between someone who’s experiencing homelessness and someone who could potentially offer help — and then how they build trust after that point. In this episode, we talk about what happens next on the road home: the processes and paperwork it takes for people to transition out of homelessness to housing. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning about what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. We’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests:
| |||
| Steve Swenson, President and CEO, Nashville Public Radio | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:49:53 | |
After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, Steve Swenson set out to make a name for himself in the radio industry. Mission accomplished. His 45-year career has seen him in key positions in Washington DC, Los Angeles, New York and finally Nashville. Well, he's soon retiring and This Is Nashville would be remiss if we did not sit down with our boss for last drop of wisdom. Listen in to this episode as he reflects on a fantastic career. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. | |||
| Khalil's send off! | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:49:57 | |
We're saying goodbye to Khalil today! After more than 550 episodes and thousands of guests, Khalil Ekulona is taking his last turn behind the This Is Nashville mic. We have gratitude — but no words — so we're inviting the public to call in with some. Join the conversation at noon or listen later to hear what he has meant to you and Middle Tennessee! Today's episode was produced by Mary Mancini, Katherine Ceicys and Josh Deepan. GUESTS | |||
| Fearless aging discussion kicks off a new series about growing older in the 21st century | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:50:01 | |
No matter what you think about aging, one thing is for sure: EVERYbody’s doing it! It’s also true that in the U.S., people are living longer, and overall, healthier, more active and empowered than ever in our country’s history. It’s not uncommon to have three, four, or even five generations in the same family or workplace. According to the last U.S. Census, adults in Tennessee over 60 make up 23% of the population. That’s about one in 5 people — and growing. This rapid demographic shift is changing conversations around aging. Starting with this first episode, we join that discussion with a new series titled “Next Age.” Once a month, we’ll bring you stories and information about growing older in the 21st century — and how Middle Tennesseans are reframing aging. Our show is made possible by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. GUESTS:
| |||
| Music Citizens Episode 3: The Tuner | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:50:07 | |
Elite piano tuning is grueling work. It’s taxing on the body, it strains relationships, and it never leads to fame or glory. Music Citizens, a podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio, recently explored how someone becomes the top piano tuner in Nashville and why they would want to. Today we welcome the voices of episode three, The Tuner. They're just some of the people who keep the music business moving — but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Plus, we learn what it takes to fix a piano when it is seemingly broken beyond repair. Guests
Further listening
| |||
| Be good to each other: Khalil Ekulona on life and his journey to broadcasting | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Khalil Ekulona has been the voice — and a driving force — of This Is Nashville since he helped launch the show three years ago. He has brought his curiosity, warmth and genuine empathy to the more than 550 episodes he’s hosted. Today, he’s sitting down on the other side of the mic to share about his time on This Is Nashville and the surprising journey that led him to public radio. We’ll also hear about the large family that shaped Ekulona, his love for creating music, and his philosophy on the importance of living life right now, no matter what. Jad Abumrad is the special guest host today. Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS
FURTHER LISTENING
| |||
| Ask the Mayor, plus Recycle and Reinvest | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:50:07 | |
Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls. Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Call 615-760-2000 with your question or comment. Then, later in the show, we hear from Jaffee Judah about his path to environmental justice advocacy and the work of his non-profit, Recycle and Reinvest. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Josh Deepen. Guests
| |||
| Hip hop producers & sampling | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
Hip hop as a genre is getting more attention from the music industry in Nashville. A good thing! But not all hip hop music is the same, nor are the ways in which hip hop music is made. The old technique, i.e., sampling, is as popular as ever, but in certain aspects it is different from when it was introduced. Once a month, a group of producers gathers together to play each other's tracks they are working on. Music City Producers, based out of Madison, hosts producers of all types of hip hop and its derivatives: boom-bap, trap, R&B, lo-fi, EDM, trance, club, etc. Today we meet some of the producers and talk with them about their music, how they create it, and why samples are important to how they work. We also follow the process of how to use samples to create a hip hop song. Hip hop artist M Slago will travel with host Khalil Ekulona as they venture into a record store to shop for vinyl, head back to the studio to listen, and create their own hip hop track for all to hear. Guests
| |||
| Civic Sparks: helping ourselves by helping others | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:49:55 | |
We love hearing about the moment in someone’s life when they decide it’s time to start helping others. We call it “a civic spark.” Today, we’re talking to two people — Brittney Brown with The Store and Samaria Leach with Window of Love — about their civic spark moments. How were they able to turn their own hardship into help for others? And how do you make sure that spark becomes a flame that doesn’t just burn out? Guests:
| |||
| Life as a forensic pathologist: Meet Adele Lewis | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:49:59 | |
There are only about 800 forensic pathologists in the entire United States. That is much lower than the number of deaths requiring investigation. How do they handle workload? What is the day in the life of a pathologist like? What are some common causes of death in Tennessee? How do pathologists determine the manner of death? If you’re into true crime, this is for you. Joining us on this edition of This Is Nashville is the state chief medical examiner for the Tennessee Department of Health, Adele Lewis. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. GUESTS
| |||
| Spring is here! How well do you know Nashville's parks? | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
Metro Nashville oversees 178 parks and over 100 miles of greenway. But that only scratches the surface. From recreational arts to dance classes, nature lectures, and team sports, everyone can find their "something" at a Nashville park. In this episode, we speak with representatives from the Nashville Parks Department about how to make the most of the spring weather. And you have a chance to speak with them! Our phone lines are open: Call us at 615-760-2000 with your question, or perhaps even some sage advice for Nashville newcomers. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests:
| |||
| Nothing compares to ukes | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:50:10 | |
They’re portable, have four strings, and George Harrison loved them so much he gave them out as presents. Today, we take a look at the popular, adorable, miniature guitar-shaped instrument known as the ukulele and the thriving uke community that exists in Middle Tennessee. Players of all skill levels join us, from beginner to professional, to share how they became hooked on this misunderstood instrument and how Music City has become a ukulele destination. Guests
Further Reading
| |||
| 'Once it's gone, it's gone.' How some Tennessee farmers are protecting their land for generations to come. | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:50:05 | |
Nearly 40% of Tennessee’s land is farmland. But Tennessee is rapidly losing its farmland, mostly to development. Once land is developed it is exceptionally difficult to ever turn it back. In response, some farmers, organizations and the state are currently working together to help preserve farms and farmland in Tennessee. Today we are speaking with two Tennessee farmers about how they’re approaching stewarding their properties for generations to come. We’ll also speak with State Senator Jack Johnson about a bill he sponsored that seeks to help Tennessee farmers protect their farmland. Join us! This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS
| |||
| Larry Gatlin, Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:49:59 | |
Larry Gatlin of The Gatlin Brothers is a name country and gospel fans know well. He is a famed singer and songwriter with Grammy awards, hit songs, and a legacy of classic performances under his belt. His hits include “Broken Lady,” “All the Gold in California,” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You).” Gatlin’s career spans seventy years and has earned him a place in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Today we sit down with Larry to hear about his life, his career, and the songs on his heart. | |||
| Severe weather, plus what's new with municipal services | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:49:46 | |
Waiting on the phone or in a long line for customer service is no fun. But what new alternatives exist? Today we hear the Davidson County Clerk’s Office new self-serve kiosks. Plus, Metro Nashville Waste Services has a new curbside composting pilot program that's part of their Zero Waste initiative. Join us to learn about these new and innovative processes created to save you time and serve you better. Plus, last night and in the early morning Middle Tennessee experienced severe weather, including severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. WPLN's Nina Cardona joins us with updates. Guests
| |||
| A people’s history of WPLN | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:49:25 | |
Today we talk about our station's history through your eyes - from that first day to where we are now, how long have you been listening and why? WPLN's first broadcast was on December 17, 1962, and lasted for just 12 hours. Back then, programming consisted of classical music, local content, and informational programs from sources all over the world. This year the station celebrates its 63rd birthday, and we've come a long way from our first studio in the Richland Park library. Join us! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests
Further Reading and Listening
| |||
| Storytime! Checking in with local children's book and YA authors | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:49:59 | |
Were you lucky enough to have someone read you bedtime stories when you were young? Did you still remember that one book you read in middle school that made you feel like someone out there completely understood you? Books give kids a special way to learn, explore and think about how they fit into a world that can feel very big to them. Today, we’re speaking with local authors who write for young readers. We'll hear about their latest books and what it’s really like to create stories and worlds that capture the attention of young readers — but can speak to all of us. Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS:
| |||
| Stephen Mason, aka Soccer Moses | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:36:19 | |
“Does it bring joy, and can it impact the community?” That’s the litmus test for Soccer Moses, aka the Handsomizer, aka Stephen Mason. Outside of Nashville, he might be better known as the lead guitarist for one of the top Christian rock bands of the ‘90s, Jars of Clay. But whether he’s playing on stage, cutting hair or dressed in a full Moses costume at a Nashville SC game, he’s always trying to figure out how he can use his exuberance and his platform for good. This episode was produced by Emily Siner. | |||
| Near Death Experiences: What dying can teach us about living | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:50:12 | |
Some people who have come close to death or who have clinically died and been resuscitated report having had a profound out-of-body experience called a Near Death Experience (NDE). Today we’ll meet the topic of NDEs and a conversation about life and death with open curiosity and compassion. We’ll hear from an NDE researcher and speak with an end-of-life doula about how she serves those who are close to death as well as her perspective on NDEs. And our phone lines are open: 615-760-2000. Join us! Today’s episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUEST:
| |||
| Pedestrian fatalities in Nashville: where we stand | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Pedestrian deaths skyrocketed in Nashville during the pandemic. | |||
| In My Place, Episode 11: Building Trust | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
Last month, we explored the first point of contact between people experiencing homelessness and outreach workers, service providers and the police. Today, we look at what happens after establishing that first contact. We talk to our guests about the importance of relationship building and the role trust plays when working with the unhoused population. Nashville Public Radio's daily show, This Is Nashville, presents the second season of In My Place — a series about finding home in our growing city. In My Place educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we will talk to people who still experience homelessness. We will learn about what it feels like to access services and maneuver through the complexities of our local homelessness and health care systems on the path to housing. We will discuss with our guests what services work, what resources are missing, and their ideas for improving access to housing and services. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judy Tackett and Tasha A.F. Lemley. Guests:
| |||
| Ella Brinen, foster care youth advocate | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:49:48 | |
Even at a young age, we have the power to influence and shape the world around us. That’s been true for Ella Brinen, a 19-year-old who’s currently lobbying state lawmakers to pass a “foster youth bill of rights” based on her own experience in the foster care system. As a high schooler, she led student protests around gun violence. Today, we talk to her about the process of writing a bill, advice for aging out of foster care, and the moment when she realized she could use her voice for good. This episode was produced by Emily Siner. | |||
| Your Turn to Talk: Tariffs and Tennessee (plus, state leg update) | 20 Mar 2025 | 00:49:57 | |
If you're reading the headlines, it may be hard to keep up with all the back and forth of the Trump administration’s tariff policy. Today we dissect what’s happening right now and look at the real and potential effect these taxes will have on businesses and consumers. Plus, WPLN environmental reporter Caroline Eggers updates us on new state legislation that could impact Tennessee's wetlands. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests
| |||
| Scarritt Bennett Center plus NECAT Documentary, It’s All Connected: The Art of Sustainability | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
First up, we take a quick trip around Scarritt Bennett to discover what this 100-year-old institution has to offer. Hint: It's much more than a great wedding location. After that, we check in with NECAT to learn more about their brand-new documentary, "It’s All Connected: The Art of Sustainability." This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. Guests
Further reading and watching | |||
| The Sewanee Review: The revival of Tennessee's storied literary magazine | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:50:20 | |
After 43 years under the same editor, the literary magazine — which had once published the work of Southern writers like Flannery O’Connor, Eudora Welty and William Faulkner — had fallen into a slump. But, in 2016, Nashville-based writer Adam Ross took over as editor. Since then, the review has seen a revival. Ross has brought the previously print-only journal into the digital age — it now has a website, an Instagram, a podcast — and has published the work of contemporary literary giants. In this episode, we hear from the review’s editorial staff and a recently published writer about the review's history and the value of a literary magazines, plus excerpts from pieces published in the review itself. This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams. Guests
Further reading
| |||
| Jerome Moore: Exploring social change with Nashville's native son | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:49:56 | |
He is the creator and host of PBS talk show A Slice of Community as well as his own podcast, Deep Dish Conversations. He is a co-host on the Nashville Scene’s podcast and an author. He is recognized for his commitment to exploring social justice and track record of community organizing. So, what shaped his world view? How did leaving Nashville to explore the world help him learn new ways to serve his hometown? We’ll talk with the multi-talented media personality about his work and learn why he commits himself to helping communities grow. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. | |||
| Want to run for elected office in Tennessee? Here's what you need to know | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
Here in Tennessee, we have elected positions from local seats on county commissions and school boards all the way up to representatives in the state legislature and U.S. Congress. But where do you start as a candidate, and what does it actually take to run a campaign? Today, we’re breaking down what you need to know to run for office, including what trainings are available for first-time candidates. Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS
| |||
| Covid restaurateurs: Nashvillians who pursued a lifelong dream during lockdown | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:50:06 | |
Many lives were lost, and many locally owned businesses shuttered for good. But from the ashes of the pandemic arose opportunities for entrepreneurs who had always wanted to make a foray into the world of restaurants. On today’s show, local business owners who opened up shop during lockdown share their stories and how they managed to grow and thrive during one of the most troubling times of the century. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests:
Restaurant locations:
| |||
| Johnny Bragg and Higher Love: Healing the Incarcerated Through Music | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:50:15 | |
Today we explore the power music has to heal some of these wounds with the inspiring story of Johnny Bragg, who in the 1940s found his voice inside the Tennessee State Prison and went on to form the chart-topping group, The Prisonaires. We also hear from the founder and a musician with Higher Love, about what it’s like to go inside the prison walls with musical performances and messages of hope, love and worth. Guests
Further reading and listening
| |||
| This Is Nashvillians: Part 2 | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
We decided to try it again: We asked six people from different parts of the region to share with us, and we were not disappointed. You’ll hear from folks of all ages and backgrounds. Sit back and open up your ears as we hear from a middle schooler, college junior, entrepreneur, a retired community member, a long time Nashville resident, and a sitting Metro Council member. They all provide us with a lot of food for thought. We present… This Is Nashvillians: Part 2. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. Guests:
Music playlist:
| |||
| Re-Air: Lent, traditions and practices | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:49:53 | |
Today, we’re talking with local Christians about what Lent is and what it means to them. Guests:
This episode was produced by Tasha A.F. Lemley, Rachel Iacovone and Katherine Ceicys. | |||
| Re-air: Essential pollinators, plus invasive plants | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:49:56 | |
Bees, butterflies, even birds and other insects provide the essential service of carrying pollen from flower to flower, helping to grow the food we eat. But as the number of pollinators dwindle due to loss of habitat and overuse of pesticides, what do Tennesseans need to know about these fascinating creatures? How can we help the pollinators to thrive? What can we do, or not do, to encourage their populations? Plus, two experts tell us about invasive plants, which can have a negative effect on our health, safety and food supply. The segments in today’s episode were produced by Magnolia Mckay, Tasha A.F. Lemley and Joan Kite. Guests:
| |||
| Re-Air: Wildlife rescue in Middle Tennessee | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:49:57 | |
Squirrels, possums, turtles, foxes, birds of prey and countless other wild creatures live right here with us in Middle Tennessee. Unfortunately, interactions with humans and human-made things can lead to injuries or death for these animals. Today, we’re speaking with the dedicated leaders and volunteers of several local wildlife rehabilitation centers to learn about what to do — and not do — if we come across an injured wild animal. We’ll also discuss steps we can take to be considerate and help prevent injuries to our wild neighbors. This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS:
| |||